Meet the Seven Supporters: A Brain-Based Tool for Emotional Regulation

Have you ever asked your child why they’re upset and been met with, “I don’t know”? Or tried to help them focus, only to hit a wall of resistance, frustration, or tears?

You're not alone. And your child isn’t broken.

Most of the time, kids can’t tell us what’s wrong — not because they don’t want to, but because their brain doesn’t yet have the language or awareness to explain what it needs.

That’s why I created The Seven Supporters — a kid-friendly system that helps children understand and communicate their internal needs, so they can move out of survival mode and back into learning, play, and connection.

What Are the Seven Supporters?

The Seven Supporters are visual characters that each represent a core brain-body need. These needs are based in neuroscience, emotional development, and the essential building blocks of regulation. Each Supporter “shows up” when your child’s brain is signaling a specific need — whether it’s comfort, movement, clarity, or confidence.

When we help kids recognize which Supporter they need, they begin to build:

• Self-awareness

• Emotional language

• Brain-body connection

• The ability to self-regulate and ask for help

The Seven Core Needs (aka Supporters)

🌀 Stella – Needs Movement & Physical Regulation
🌬️ Connie – Needs Comfort & Connection
🎯 Ace – Needs Encouragement & Acceptance
⭐ Val – Needs Purpose & Value
🔍 Clara – Needs Clarity (Mental & Emotional)
🛡️ Trey – Needs Trust, Boundaries & Safety
💬 Hon – Needs Honest Communication & Expression

Why It Works

The Seven Supporters give kids a visual language to check in with their brain. Instead of escalating, melting down, or avoiding work — they can pause, identify what their brain and body are asking for, and get back on track faster.

This system isn't about labeling emotions — it's about listening to the brain. When we teach kids that every behavior is a signal, we empower them (and ourselves) to respond with empathy and strategy.

What’s Next?

In the next few posts, I’ll introduce each Supporter one by one — explaining their role, how to spot when they’re needed, and simple tools to support your child in that moment.

Want a head start? Grab the free Seven Supporters Check-In Tool and start helping your child understand their brain today. This tool has helped countless families move from confusion to connection — and I can’t wait to show you how.